News
Inspection campaign looks at dusts, fumes and fibres
Tue, 24 Mar 2009WorkSafe will conduct a targeted inspection campaign on dusts, fumes and fibres in workplaces throughout April.
WorkSafe WA Commissioner Nina Lyhne said today that dusts, fumes and fibres were responsible for a significant number of illnesses and deaths.
“The health effects of exposure to these airborne substances are often not felt until much later, making it crucial to manage them in a proactive manner before the damage can be done,” Ms Lyhne said.
“In addition to the potential health effects on workers, many of these substances are combustible and can be the cause of catastrophic explosions if the proper preventative measures are not taken.
“The primary aim of the inspection program will be to increase awareness of the hazards and to ensure that appropriate control measures are in place where the hazards are present.
“During April, inspectors who visit workplaces for any reason will also be assessing whether hazardous or combustible dust, fumes or fibres are present and, if they are, will run through a checklist based around identification, assessment and control of the substances.”
A variety of dust, fumes and fibres are being targeted over a number of different industries. They include:
• Asbestos in vehicle repairs, construction and demolition that may cause asbestosis or mesothelioma;
• Laundry powders and cleaning products in cleaning and laundry services that can be corrosive and lead to nose and throat irritation;
• Diesel exhaust fumes in construction and manufacturing that may be carcinogenic and can lead to immediate nose and throat irritation;
• Wood dust in cabinet making and construction that is combustible and may be carcinogenic;
• Flour and grain dust in food and agricultural industries that are combustible and can result in occupational asthma; and
• Silica in construction and related industries that can lead to silicosis and lung cancer.
The checklist will ensure that all inspectors maintain a consistent approach.
“There are many airborne substances that can cause illness and disease in workers, and the potential risks may not be immediately recognised or fully understood,” Ms Lyhne said.
“This inspection campaign is part of an ongoing program of proactive inspections aimed at providing employers with information on how to comply with occupational safety and health laws.
“We firmly believe that raising awareness is the best way in which to lessen the risk of illness and injury, but if inspectors find breaches of the laws, they will take enforcement action.”
Further information on dusts, fumes and fibres can be obtained by telephoning AllSafety on 0419 833 760.